Srinagar, Mar 18 (KNO): The evacuation of Indian medical students from war-hit Iran has entered a critical phase, with several students returning safely while hundreds remain stranded at border points, particularly along the Azerbaijan–Iran corridor.
Growing uncertainty and logistical hurdles have triggered panic among students and their families, prompting urgent appeals for intervention by higher authorities.
According to details obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a batch of 20 Indian students evacuated via Armenia landed safely in India at 9:55 AM on Tuesday.
Moreover, four students who had earlier crossed into Azerbaijan arrived in India from Baku at 3:40 AM. While these evacuations have offered some relief, a much larger group continues to face distressing conditions.
The situation is especially alarming at the Azerbaijan–Iran border, where an estimated 200–250 Indian students are reportedly stuck. Authorities in Azerbaijan have made it mandatory for students to possess specific “travel codes” to cross the border and proceed to Baku airport. In the absence of these codes, many students have been denied passage, leaving them stranded in uncertain and tense circumstances.
Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, Vice President of the All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA), said that several students are unable to move forward despite having valid travel documents. "Many students have suffered financial losses as their non-refundable flight tickets from Baku have gone unused due to the delays," he said.
Parents of stranded students have expressed deep concern over the safety and well-being of their children. In a formal communication addressed to authorities, including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, they stated that their wards had booked flights from Baku to Mumbai on March 19, 20, and 23. However, due to the non-issuance of required travel codes by Azerbaijani authorities, students are unable to reach the airport.
“With great concern, we wish to bring to your notice that our children are stranded at the Astra border crossing between Iran and Azerbaijan. Despite having confirmed tickets, they are being denied movement due to a lack of travel codes. The students are frightened and vulnerable. We request immediate intervention to ensure their safe evacuation,” the parents said in their letter.
Meanwhile, some progress has been made in relocating students from other regions. Around 86 students from Shiraz have successfully crossed into Armenia and are expected to return to India on March 20. Similarly, students from Golestan University have also reached Armenia safely.
A considerable number of students are currently stationed in Qom, where temporary accommodation arrangements have been made with the assistance of the Indian Embassy. Officials are said to be closely monitoring the evolving situation and coordinating efforts to facilitate the safe return of all stranded individuals.
However, families argue that the response needs to be expedited, especially for those stuck at border crossings under stressful conditions. They have urged the Ministry of External Affairs and other senior officials to take up the matter directly with the Azerbaijan authorities to resolve the issue of travel codes without further delay—(KNO)